I love jeans as much as the next person. In fact, probably more. I adhere to the same school of thought as the revered, late editor-in-chief of American Vogue, Diana Vreeland, who was once quoted as saying “blue jeans are the most beautiful thing since the gondola.”
That said, a love for classic denim does not have to mean eschewing all alternatives. Enter the leather trouser; leather (faux or real) trousers are, alongside jeans, among the most useful items you can have in your wardrobe. Not only are they versatile and practical, but they also grant the wearer a sort of cool girl nonchalance with a polished edge. Exactly the vibe we’re after.
I find the most flattering styles to be loose or straight-leg (not super skinny) and would generally suggest opting for a mid or high waist (low-rise leather can be tricky!). Look beyond black (I particularly like olive and chocolate styles) and don’t shy from vinyl iterations. Yes, really. If cut well, these can be uber-flattering, and might be just the injection of fun your wardrobe is crying out for…
Leather trousers for hosting at home
Leather at home you say? Bear with me. Thanks to the buttery soft texture, leather trousers (whether real or faux) are far comfier than denim. Paired with a lightweight denim shirt, you have an effortlessly chic look that’s perfect for hosting that intimate dinner party you’ve been dreaming up. I would suggest adding some Birkenstocks, not only because they’re uber-cool, but also because I can’t stand the idea of outdoor shoes inside. Finish with some pretty gold jewellery.
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Leather trousers for hitting the dance floor
In the midst of the roaring ‘20s 2.0, it only feels right to concoct a leather trouser-based look that’s perfect for dancing. A vinyl pair are jazzy enough for evening, especially if you style them with a shimmery top. Add strappy shoes that’ll elongate your legs but leave you free to bust out those TikTok moves you spent lockdown learning.
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Leather trousers outfits for a low-key Sunday
Whether you’re holing up with a roast in your local pub, running errands or just mooching around at home and keen to change out of your pyjamas, a pair of slouchy leather trousers might be just what you’re after: comfort with a sprinkling of I-did-not-just-wake-up-like-this. I’d add my favourite Nike kicks, a T-shirt and a supersize scrunchie, the latter of which will make a laidback look feel purposeful.
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Leather trousers outfits for the office
Those looking for a consciously-made alternative to real and faux-leather trousers should seek out cactus leather. Made from the nopal plant, cactus leather is entirely free of micro plastics, while also being more durable than many of its faux counterparts. A coloured pair puts a fresh spin on leather trousers. Pair with an oversized shirt, a pretty necklace and a giant coloured tote for a workwear look that packs a punch.
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Leather trousers outfits for a day out with friends
While I am truly an advocate for dressing for yourself, it’s always nice when your fashion choices are appreciated by your friends. Those who get it, get it, you know? So if you’re heading for lunch with a group of your more discerning pals, why not give them what they want and pop on a pair of olive-hued trousers. Pair these with coloured loafers for a punchy combo, then add some jewellery as the final style flourish.
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Leather trousers outfits for a gig
Sometimes, and I say this as a die-hard maximalist, less is more. You can’t go far wrong with a classic pair of straight-leg (just wide enough to go over boots) leather-effect trousers and a white vest top. Style with pointed-toe boots and you have yourself the perfect gig-going look. A touch literal perhaps, but oh so chic! As a final flourish I’d add a silk scarf; these truly are a styling saviour. I frequently wear mine as a neckerchief, but also use it as an embellishment for my bag or hair.
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